Call Us Now
Email Us Now
The concept of communicating with an ex-spouse via only electronic communication may be appealing to many Michigan divorcees. For divorced parents, the use of such tools may provide a way for open communication, without the awkwardness and discomfort of face-to-face or voice conversations. When parents cannot agree on child custody arrangements or schedules, using technological tools may promote a healthier family experience, during and after divorce.
Many parents are limiting their conversations with their ex to text messages and email. As for communication between parents and children, tools such as Skype are increasingly popular, and supported by many courts. In addition, when schedules become conflicting, parents can use tools such as an online calendar that is open to both parties, to ensure that dates do not overlap and no one gets confused.
Many courts are now requiring certain electronic measures for families. Requiring the purchase of a cell phone for children in order for parents to communicate directly is increasingly popular. Scheduled Skype sessions are becoming commonplace as well, in addition to scheduling visitation. Courts are also requiring contentious couples in renewed legal actions to use technology rather than face-to-face interaction.
During and after divorce, Michigan parents face many challenges. Among those is finding an agreeable balance for child custody matters. The use of technological tools during divorce and beyond may help parents keep the children’s best interest at the forefront of their decision-making. When parents cannot agree and be civil to one another in person, the children are often the ones who suffer the most.
Source: The New York Times, “Joint Custody, From a Distance,” Pamela Paul, Nov. 23, 2012